Abstract

Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs) are products derived from the reaction between reducing sugars and the aminoacids. The process of covalent linkage of a sugar with a protein or an amino acid is called as glycation. The AGEs are formed exogenously from animal derived foods which are rich in fat and protein. AGEs can be endogenously formed from hyperglycemic diet. The defense system of the body metabolizes the AGEs with the help of glyoxylase enzyme system utilizing glutathione and restricts AGEs formation. AGEs may accumulate in the body due to unhealthy dietary habits of an individual or due to uncontrolled diabetes. Thus, results in functional loss of long-lived proteins like collagen, skeletal and vascular smooth muscles. The cross-linking nature of AGEs impairs the function of proteins, damages the cell structure, produces Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and creates oxidative stress. In addition to this property of AGEs, its ability to bind with Receptors for Advanced Glycation End products (RAGE) leads to increased oxidative stress and activates inflammatory pathway in vascular endothelial cells. AGE-RAGE complex can in turn activate or inhibit the signaling pathways causing various clinical conditions like the Diabetes Mellitus (DM), Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), neurodegenerative diseases, skin diseases, aging and cancer. Healthy living, good cooking and dietary habits can reverse the serious effects of AGEs.

Keywords: Advanced glycation end products; Receptors for advanced glycation end products; Glycation; Unhealthy dietary habits